Radiation from the sun provides ______ for the water cycle.

• A. energy
• B. carbon dioxide
• C. oxygen
• D. chlorophyll

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the water cycle: The water cycle involves processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. These processes require energy to drive them.
2. Identify the role of the sun: The sun is the primary source of energy for Earth, and it provides the necessary energy to power the water cycle.
3. Focus on evaporation: During evaporation, water molecules gain energy from sunlight, allowing them to transition from a liquid to a gaseous state (water vapor).
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Carbon dioxide, oxygen, and chlorophyll are not directly involved in driving the water cycle. Chlorophyll is related to photosynthesis, while carbon dioxide and oxygen are gases involved in respiration and photosynthesis.
5. Conclude the correct answer: The sun provides energy, which is essential for processes like evaporation in the water cycle.